Frequently Asked Questions – Roofing slates

Please, check this article about what is slate.

The age varies depending on the regional geology. For example in Scotland, Ballachulish slate was formed from sediments laid down approximately 700 million years ago and was metamorphosed 500 million years ago, while Spanish slate from the Orense area was formed from muds laid down over 450 million years ago and was metamorphosed 300 – 350 million years ago.

Producers may indicate the reaction to fire of their materials, classified in accordance with the European standard EN 13501-1. CUPA PIZARRAS natural slates have been classified as A1, the best possible classification because they are non-combustible.

Conversely, manufacturers of fibre-cement slates were certified as A2, only “non-flammable”. 

Natural slate is the most durable roofing material. British geologist J.A. Walsh highlights that natural slates have a service life of greater than 100 years. After a detailed research, Walsh exposed natural slate (including CUPA 3) to different weather conditions. As a result, geologist emphasizes natural slate durability to last over a century.

Please, check this article about what how to calculate the weight of slate.

Please, check this article about what the minimum headlap for fixing slates.

Please, check this article about why choose natural slate for roofing.